If you were to get in an auto accident, do you have enough coverage?
Although almost every state requires drivers to have insurance, nearly 1 in 8 aren’t insured or are under-insured. That means, if you get into an accident with an uninsured or under-insured driver, most of the costs, if not all, are coming right out of your pocket.
In 2012, approximately 11.8% of drivers in Georgia were uninsured, 23.8% in Florida.
The reality is, you are probably more likely to be involved in an accident with someone who has no insurance than you are with a driver who has a $1 million+ insurance policy. And legally, there is little you can do to recoup money from an uninsured or under-insured driver to pay repair bills, medical bills and beyond.
Don’t overlook the need for uninsured or under-insured motorist coverage. This is important for your family and will help protect you if you are in an accident with a driver who has little or no coverage. You don’t want to have to deal with possible tens of thousands of dollars in bills when someone pulls out in front of you.
Many people may be confused as to exactly what this type of coverage is used for. Uninsured and Under-insured Motorist Coverage doesn’t cover the other person in the event of an accident, it covers you. The coverage is there to protect you.
Depending on the type of coverage you get, Uninsured or Under-insured Motorist Coverage can help cover medical expenses, damage to your vehicle, lost wages and emotional distress. Twenty states require drivers to have this insurance, whether its under-insured or uninsured coverage.
No one wants to be in an accident, but unfortunately, they do happen.
What To Do After an Accident
- Check for injuries – yourself, your passengers and then the other vehicle. When in doubt, call an ambulance.
- Call 911 to report your accident.
- Try to stay calm. Emotions will be high, but take a deep breath and stay calm.
- Call your lawyer.
- If you can, move cars to a safe place, away from traffic.
- Take pictures with your cell phone, including damage to vehicles, witness information, etc.
- Don’t assume guilt and say the accident was your fault. Even if you think it was.
- State just the facts and limit your discussion to the police and your insurance agent.
- Don’t leave the accident before the police or other driver.
- Identify all witnesses and get their phone numbers.
- Don’t sign any documents.
- Notify your insurance agent.
If you have any questions about getting Uninsured or Under-insured Motorist Coverage, what to do in the event of an accident or even if you want to discuss a recent accident, please reach out and give me a call. I am happy to help.
